Uncover the timeless magic of Morocco, where ancient cities, desert landscapes, and rich traditions create a journey of discovery and wonder.
This immersive adventure reveals the country’s cultural heart, from the coastal elegance of Rabat and the blue-washed charm of Chefchaouen to the labyrinthine medinas of Fes and the vibrant energy of Marrakech. Wander through centuries-old souks, explore remarkably preserved Roman ruins at Volubilis, and experience the dramatic beauty of the Sahara with camel rides across towering dunes and nights under star-filled desert skies. Along the way, discover Berber traditions, savour Morocco’s celebrated cuisine, and travel through the dramatic Atlas Mountains and lush oasis valleys. Designed for curious travellers and cultural explorers, this journey offers a captivating blend of history, landscapes, and living heritage that makes Morocco one of North Africa’s most enchanting destinations.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Private Departures 
Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival at Casablanca airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your tour leader and transferred to your riad located in the heart of Rabat’s historic medina (114km, 1hr 23min). Rabat, the capital of Morocco, is home to many fascinating museums and historic landmarks. Its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets and vibrant markets, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich culture and history. (B,D)
Overnight – Euphoriad or similar
After breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide for a fascinating tour of Rabat’s highlights. Start with a visit to the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a 12th-century fortress offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Bouregreg River. Explore the kasbah’s narrow streets and alleys, visit the peaceful Andalusian Gardens, and continue to the Hassan Tower. This 12th-century minaret, although never completed, remains an iconic symbol of Rabat. The tower stands amidst the ruins of a mosque, offering beautiful views of the city.
Afterwards, you’ll travel to Chefchaouen (247 km, 4.5 hrs), famously known as the “Blue Pearl.” En route, enjoy a barbecue lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival in Chefchaouen, check in to your riad and relax before a wine and goat cheese tasting experience. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Dar Echchaouen or similar
Today after breakfast, embark on a guided tour through the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas of the medina and Plaza Uta el-Hammam. Admire the stunning 15th-century architecture of the Grand Mosque (from outside as it is closed to non-Muslims) and explore the square’s shops filled with woven goods and local sweets. Within the plaza, you’ll also find the fortified Kasbah, where you can wander peaceful gardens, visit the ethnographic museum, and enjoy sweeping views from the rooftop.
Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch on the terrace at Café Clock, with breathtaking views of Chefchaouen. Following lunch, you’ll continue your journey to Fes (211km, 3hr 37m), with a stop at the World Heritage-listed site of Volubilis. Once a provincial Roman capital and a remote outpost of the empire, the ruins are impressive, and much of the marble was later repurposed for construction in nearby Meknes after an earthquake in the 18th century. Take a guided tour of the site, where you’ll see well-preserved mosaics along the Decumanus Maximus. Please remember to bring drinking water, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as it can get quite hot, and don’t forget your camera to capture the remarkable sights.
After exploring Volubilis, continue to Fes, the living museum of Morocco. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Riad El Amine or similar
Fes is the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco, vibrant, noisy, fascinating, and at times overwhelming, offering a visual and sensory feast. The city is divided into three distinct quarters, with Fes el Bali, the old city, standing as one of the world’s most captivating and labyrinthine historical areas. In medieval times, Fes was a major centre of education and culture for both Islamic and Jewish communities. Its religious institutions, libraries, and mosques are renowned, and it was here that many Muslims and Jews, expelled from Spain in 1492, sought refuge.
Wander through the maze of narrow, winding streets, passing donkeys laden with goods, and explore the unique souk sections. The air is filled with the smells of spices, herbs, and simmering soups, while the sounds of hammering copper and the bustle of everyday life transport you back in time. Discover historic khans, medresses, and dye-pits, and visit the famous tanneries and the splendid Funduk Nejjarine, a beautifully restored 18th-century inn.
During your guided tour, you’ll enjoy traditional Fes cuisine: grilled meats, pastries, soups, Moroccan pancakes, and refreshing tea, coffee, nuts, and olives. After a day full of exploration, you’ll have some free time to relax. For dinner, savour pastilla, a Fes specialty. This unique dish combines layers of crisp, flaky pastry filled with spiced meat (often chicken), almonds, and eggs, with a hint of sweetness from cinnamon and powdered sugar. It’s a perfect blend of savory and sweet, and a true representation of Fes’ rich culinary tradition. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Riad El Amine or similar
Today is a travel day (468km, 6 hrs 51 mins). Depart from Fes and drive south, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. Your first stop will be Ifran, often referred to as “the Switzerland of Morocco.” From there, continue through Midlet and the Ziz Valley, with stunning views of the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. Drive through the largest cedar forest in Morocco, stopping to take in panoramic views and passing Berber villages. In the afternoon, the landscape transitions as you head towards the desert.
Continuing southeast, you arrive in Merzouga. Upon arrival, climb into your 4WD vehicle for a short transfer to your desert camp. Check in, relax, and enjoy a sunset drink, followed by a traditional dinner and a campfire with local music to complete the desert experience. (B,D)
Overnight – Camp Lemnaouar or similar
After breakfast in the camp, embark on an exciting 4WD journey into the desert. First, explore a local oasis to observe the workings of this vital desert lifeline. Next, visit the Ancient Stone Mine before heading to meet the Gnawa people, originally slaves brought from Sudan, to experience their unique music. For lunch, enjoy a traditional Berber pizza. After lunch, return to camp for some free time to relax.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a sunset camel ride. Guided by an experienced camel handler, explore the majestic sand sea of Merzouga. The Erg Chebbi, a vast expanse of shifting, wind-swept sand, is formed into picturesque undulating crests and valleys. Its towering dunes, some reaching heights of 500 feet, are among the most stunning in Morocco and offer a must-see desert experience. Tonight, savour a delicious dinner accompanied by a live show and a campfire for a memorable desert evening. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camp Lemnaouar or similar
After breakfast, begin your journey towards Todra Gorge (196 km, 2hr 56 m), one of Morocco’s most dramatic natural landmarks. As you drive, you’ll pass through the Kella Mgouna Rose Valley, renowned for its fragrant rose gardens, especially during the blooming season, where the air is filled with the scent of roses. Continue through the Oasis of Skoura (130km, 2hr 10m), a lush, green paradise nestled in the desert, home to several privately owned kasbahs. One highlight is the Kasbah Ameridhl, a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture with its intricate decorations, beautiful arches, and impressive mud-brick fortifications that reflect the region’s rich history.
Upon arrival in Skoura, check in to your hotel, set amidst the oasis’s palm groves and serene surroundings. After settling in, enjoy some free time to relax and take in the tranquil beauty of your surroundings before dinner. (B,D)
Overnight – Ksar El Kebbaba or similar
Today, visit Ouarzazate (45km, 41 min), often called the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Continue to Ait Benhaddou (31km, 32m) and enjoy a guided walking tour of this iconic Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning mud-brick architecture and its role in numerous films. Next, enjoy lunch at Tamanart Space, a unique artistic venue that supports and empowers local artists. The atmosphere here offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with Morocco’s creative spirit while savouring delicious cuisine.
After lunch, continue your journey to Marrakech (183km, 3hr 6m). You’ll arrive by late afternoon and check in to your riad. Once settled, enjoy an orientation walking tour through the vibrant streets of Marrakech’s old medina before a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll enjoy exquisite cuisine and a live show, making for a memorable end to your journey. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Raid Palais Tara & Spa or similar
This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
For those keen to explore more of this fascinating city, chat to our team to discuss your options. Some suggestions include:
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Contact our team to learn more or subscribe to our newsletter to learn more about our upcoming tours.
**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
More about out Tour Styles.
Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Back to Morocco Tours
